AB-2681 • 2026

Write-in candidates: fees.

Children Elections

Passed Legislature

This bill passed both chambers and reached final enrollment, even if later executive action is not shown here.

Sponsor: Hart
Last action: 2026-02-21
Official status: From printer. May be heard in committee March 23.
Effective date: Not listed

Plain English Breakdown

The official source material does not provide details on what constitutes the nonsubstantive change, nor does it explain the rationale behind this amendment.

Write-in Candidates: Fees

AB-2681 makes a minor change to existing rules about fees for write-in candidates.

What This Bill Does

Makes a nonsubstantive change to the current rule that prohibits imposing a fee on write-in candidates, except in city elections.

Who It Names or Affects

People who want to be write-in candidates
City offices that have elections

Terms To Know

Write-in candidate: A person who wants to run for office but is not listed on the ballot and must get their name written in by voters.
Nonsubstantive change: An edit that does not make a real difference or change how something works.

Limits and Unknowns

The bill summary does not explain what the nonsubstantive change is.
It's unclear why this minor change was made to an existing law.

Bill History

2026-02-21 California Legislative Information
From printer. May be heard in committee March 23.
2026-02-20 California Legislative Information
Read first time. To print.

Official Summary Text

AB 2681, as introduced, Hart.
Write-in candidates: fees.
Existing law prohibits the imposition of a fee or charge for a write-in candidate except in the case of a candidate for city office, as specified.
This bill would make a nonsubstantive change to the above provision.

Current Bill Text

Read the full stored bill text

Download Bill PDF